West Kelowna

When she is able to walk, she'll be a walking miracle after being struck by a van.

A 7-year-old girl was walking with a friend in the 3300 block of Old Okanagan Highway, at around 6 p.m. on January 27.

Constable Steve Holmes says she saw two other friends on the other side of the road, and decided to cross the road to be with them.

“Her friend saw the oncoming van and tried to stop her, but the girl ran across in front of the van, which struck her,” says Holmes.

He says the 46-year-old male driver of the van was not able to stop or avoid her.

“He jumped out of his vehicle, calling 911 as he ran over to help her. A retired nurse, who came upon the scene within seconds, went to the girl's aid as well. At first, she was unresponsive and not breathing.”

Holmes says the girl began to breathe again when she heard her name being yelled to her.

“She then regained consciousness as Emergency crews arrived. She was taken to Kelowna General Hospital for treatment of a broken leg and pelvis and her condition was stable as of early Thursday morning.”

He says the driver of the van was very distraught as he was on his way to pick up his own daughter at the time of the incident.

“Police investigation found no signs of alcohol or drug impairment on the part of the driver, and speed was not considered a factor.”

Holmes says it was dark and that part of the roadway had some artificial illumination.